Domestic abuse is any form of physical, sexual or emotional abuse between people in a close relationship.

Usually the abuser is male and the victim female, but it is not limited to any particular group.

The long term effects include low self esteem, guilt feelings, depression and stress.

FACT:

1 in 4 women experience domestic abuse at some stage during their lives. (BMA, 1998)

One woman is killed every 3 days by a violent partner or ex partner. (CRIMINAL STATS, HOME OFFICE,1995)

Domestic Violence accounts for one quarter of all violent crimes. (BRITISH CRIME SURVEY, 1998)

Over 54,000 women and children stay in refuges in England every year. (WOMEN'S AID FEDERATION OF ENGLAND, 1999)

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Recognize domestic abuse for what it is.  Stop denying or playing down the abuse you are experiencing.

You have the right to live free of fear, threat and abuse.  The responsibility for the abuse lies not with you but the abuser.

Find out where you can get emotional support and practical help. You may want to start by talking to a friend you can trust.

Work out a crisis safety plan to keep you and your children safe.

Identifying a safe place to go, such as a friends, a neighbour, family member or a women's refuge.

Plan how to contact help in a emergency at any time.

Store clothes, money, children's toys, important document's, address, telephone numbers and spare keys with someone you can trust, or in a safe and easily accessible place.

WHERE TO GO WHEN YOU LEAVE:

Go to your local refuge, they will only accepted women and their children.

Stay with family or friends who you can trust.

WHERE TO GET HELP:

In an emergency call 999.

Go to your local police who will be able to put you in touch with their Domestic Violence Unit.  They are there to help and advise you about personal safety and prevent further offences happening to you as well as giving you support for any of your problems or worries.  They will make sure you have all the correct information about criminal proceedings, and support you if you need to attend court, all this is done in total confidence.

Seek the advise of a solicitor, most women's refuge have their own , but you can always appoint your own.

It takes a lot of courage to leave a violent partner and take control of your life.  For many of us it is the first step to gaining self respect and independence.  Don't be surprised if  you feel a range of conflicting emotions.  The most important thing is to acknowledge the way you feel and try and find the support you need.